A question for a friend...
 

My girlfriend is thin.. I mean VERY thin to the point of it looking unhealthy. I was telling her how I feel when I am on the WOL and she is interested in trying it as well. Does anyone think that it will hurt her to be on it?

I think this way of eating is healthy even for those who don't need to lose weight. At that size, she probably won't drop much if any during Induction anyway.

I am NOT medically trained in any way, so you might want to consult an expert, but I think if she wants to try Atkins she can do a two-week Induction (essential for breaking addictions to sugar and carbs) then rapidly progress through OWL. Maybe adding 10 grams a week instead of 5, or even more. I have heard that this WOE "stabilizes" your weight, so that if you're overweight you lose and if you're underweight, you might even gain a little until you're at a healthy weight.

Thank you very much for your quick reply. I didn't see her for about 5 years and when I did I almost fell over how thin she was. Her body fat must be only in her Boobs...I normally am a quiet person not to hurt people's feelings but I HAD to tell her that she was too thin because even the skin on her face was drooping...I really do love this woman and if this can help her like you think I would thank God!

I had heard that also. I would check at the atkins website first, because she might not do induction. As you said I am NOT medically trained in any way either, but they have a questions section on the atkins website and a number you can call to get the best advise.

I just don't want her to wither up and die on me...

I'd definately advise her to see a doctor first, she may have other issues she needs to deal with first -- she should probably have a complete physical done first. Just my opinion.

Vikki

i have done much research (we have a medical library here in my town) and it seems based on the research that thin people can follow a low carb diet and become healthier due to gaining muscle etc.

i would say go for it - but you are correct she does need to start at 20 grams of carbs

probably maintenance levels would be the best.

there is also evidence out there now that suggests low carb is great for treating alcoholics

I would think that anyone would benefit from cutting out refined carbs. I'd be leary of induction though, since it's designed for weight loss... IMHO starting at 40 grams or so and working up would be prudent, but I agree she needs a thourough physical first.

jedswife - do you have anything to back the "alcoholic" thing up. Or is it because you just can't drink that much on this WOE? Just wondering. Thanks.

Vikki

I have a friend that is exactly like that. I know she eats a ton because I've vacationed with her:) She did "try" eating low carb for awhile but she reacted differently. She ended up gaining weight and inches. Also, she felt really lethagic. Granted the decrease in energy in the beginning is normal. I know that there are a number of different low carb plans. She might benefit from another plan than Atkins. We were actually looking into that for my friend.

I would suggest that your friend try first cutting out all the refined carbs, the sugar and white bread and such. This wouldn't be so radical a change and she could see how she feels.
And I know I didn't get enough protein before...maybe she has the same problem. We are told "stay away from meat and fat" and I got so tired of white meat chicken I couldn't eat it anymore, and didn't get much protein at all.
Upping that could do wonders for her. After her checkup.

I had just described the physical things that I had experienced and she was very much interested in it. I personally would love to see her gain weight and I dont' think that she would be all that upset too but she is resigned to being thin (GOD I wish!) She just is tired and sluggish all the time and would like to feel the energy I described.

I would advise her to read Atkin's for LIfe... it talks about the mantainance part of the diet... If she is not trying to lose weight but is trying to feel energized and healthy... she should start at around 50-100 carbs a day... and not do the induction level.
Just my opinion.